Shoulder pain can be quite bothersome. Sometimes it starts with a small stab when lifting something heavy, or you suddenly feel it during sports. If the pain doesn’t go away and you notice you’re moving your arm less easily, it may be a shoulder inflammation. In this blog, you’ll read how to recognize the symptoms, what the causes are, and what you can do about it. You’ll also discover how the MotiMove app helps you recover faster and better.
Table of contents
- What is a shoulder inflammation?
- Symptoms you shouldn’t ignore
- How does a shoulder inflammation develop?
- Examination and diagnosis
- Treatment and recovery steps
- Exercises and tips for home
- MotiMove: your partner in recovery
- Frequently asked questions
What is a shoulder inflammation?
A shoulder inflammation means there is irritation or swelling in the structures of your shoulder, such as the tendons, bursa, or muscles. This can make movement painful and difficult.
Common forms are bursitis or tendinitis. Sometimes it involves the entire area around the shoulder, as in rotator cuff syndrome.
Symptoms you shouldn’t ignore
Complaints often start small but can get worse quickly. Pay particular attention to:
- Stabbing or aching pain in the shoulder
- Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm
- Pain that gets worse at night, especially when lying on it
- Stiffness upon waking
- Sometimes mild swelling or warmth
Do you recognize several of these signals? Then it’s wise to intervene before the complaints become chronic.
How does a shoulder inflammation develop?
Not every inflammation has the same cause. Sometimes it’s a clear accident or fall, but often overuse plays a role. Think of prolonged painting, heavy lifting, or repeated overhead movements.
A poor posture or wear and tear due to aging can also be the culprit. Even stress can have an impact, as it increases muscle tension.
Examination and diagnosis
A GP or physiotherapist can often see and feel a lot during a consultation and physical examination. Sometimes an ultrasound or MRI is done to see exactly where the inflammation is located. The goal is always to determine which structures are irritated so the treatment can be tailored appropriately.
Treatment and recovery steps
Treatment of a shoulder inflammation usually revolves around rest and controlled movement.
In the first few days, cooling the shoulder and avoiding heavy movements often helps. After that, it’s important to make the joint supple again with light exercises. A physiotherapist can guide you in this.
Medication, such as anti-inflammatories, is sometimes prescribed temporarily, but movement remains the most important factor for recovery.
Exercises and tips for home
Keep moving, but in the right way. Exercises such as shoulder rolls, “walking” your fingers up the wall, or gentle stretches can make a big difference.
In the MotiMove app you’ll find exercise videos tailored to your pain level, so you can practice safely without fear of making it worse.
MotiMove: your partner in recovery
The MotiMove app is specially designed for people with pain complaints, such as a shoulder inflammation.
With MotiMove you can:
- Start immediately with exercise videos that are safe and effective
- Learn more about pain, so you understand what’s happening in your body
- Track your progress and celebrate small successes
- Keep moving without overloading
Download MotiMove today and take the first step toward a more flexible, pain-free shoulder.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a shoulder inflammation last?
This can vary from a few weeks to months, depending on the cause and treatment.
Can I exercise with a shoulder inflammation?
Yes, but choose calm and controlled exercises that don’t cause pain.
Is cold or heat better?
Cold is often better in the first days to reduce swelling. Heat can help later with stiffness.
Can it go away on its own?
Sometimes, but by continuing to move with the right exercises, you often recover faster.
Don’t wait until the pain limits you in your daily life.
Download the MotiMove app and discover how to move freely again in a safe way.